Seoul Botanic Park in Magok: A Botanical Experience in the Heart of the City

Seoul Botanic Park in Magok, Gangseo-gu, Seoul

Location: 161 Magokdong-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul
Phone: 02-2140-9716
Parking: Underground parking at the Plant Culture Center
Hours:

Open year-round (Themed Gardens and Greenhouse operate separately)
Themed Gardens/Greenhouse: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Shortened winter hours (November – February), closing one hour earlier

Seoul Botanic Park, located in the heart of the Magok district, was developed in line with Seoul's vision to create an eco-friendly city centered around parks. Easily accessible by subway — from Magok Station on Line 5 and Magoknaru Station on Line 9 and the Airport Railroad — the park offers convenient urban escape.

Combining a botanical garden and a sprawling park seamlessly, Seoul Botanic Park spans an area equivalent to 70 soccer fields, making it 2.2 times larger than Yeouido Park. The park is divided into four major zones, one of which features a unique bowl-shaped greenhouse in the Themed Gardens. This greenhouse showcases native plants from 12 cities around the world, offering visitors a chance to explore distinct flora from various climate zones.

Themed Gardens
The Themed Gardens consist of traditional Korean gardens showcasing native plants alongside a greenhouse exhibiting flora from 12 cities around the tropical and Mediterranean regions of the world.

Until the completion of the National Sejong Arboretum’s greenhouse in Sejong City, Seoul Botanic Park’s greenhouse was the largest in South Korea. Its roof is made of ETFE, a special type of film that transmits sunlight more efficiently than regular glass. The greenhouse’s sidewalls feature 3,000 glass panels, creating a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

The greenhouse houses an impressive collection of around 8,000 plant species from 12 cities around the world. It maintains a constant temperature and humidity year-round, providing a cool retreat in summer and a warm haven in winter.

At the top of the greenhouse, a skywalk offers visitors a panoramic view of the entire space. Strolling along this elevated pathway allows for a unique perspective and a special way to experience the botanical garden’s diverse beauty.

The Lake Garden features scenic walking paths and waterside observation decks along the lake. It’s a favorite spot for families, with a children’s playground and a small water park that comes alive during the summer months, making it a perfect daily getaway.

Centered around the lake, the left side features paved lake steps, while the right side offers dirt trails lined with vegetation. The spacious area attracts many visitors who enjoy walking and jogging amidst the natural surroundings.

Open Forest

One of the most distinctive features of the Seoul Botanic Park is the Open Forest and its expansive lawn, located just beside the greenhouse. This vast green space in the heart of the surrounding forest offers visitors a true moment of relaxation, with scattered chairs and tables inviting you to pause and unwind.

Families often enjoy simple ball games with their children here, while dog owners take leisurely strolls with their pets, fostering a warm sense of community. It’s a serene area where nature, play, and gentle connection come together effortlessly.

At the entrance to the Open Forest, you'll find LG Arts Center Seoul, which officially opened its doors in October 2022 after completing construction. Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando in collaboration with Korean firm Gansam Architects, the building is a striking example of exposed concrete architecture.

More than just a performance venue, LG Arts Center is a cultural space open to everyone—a bold, modern structure that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while inviting the public to experience world-class performances and exhibitions.

On weekends and holidays, long lines of cars can often be seen approaching Seoul Botanic Park, especially during peak hours. To avoid congestion and delays, it’s highly recommended to use public transportation or park at alternative nearby lots, as the underground parking at the park tends to fill up quickly.